How to choose freestyle snowboard boots?
Snowboard boots are a crucial piece of snowboarding equipment. If you're wondering what to invest in and where to save, boots are definitely a crucial part of a rider's kit, and it's worth investing in a more expensive model that will provide you with adequate comfort. Boots can also be rented along with your equipment at the slopes, but we don't recommend this option. A comfortable boot is essential for having fun and feeling good while riding. Many models have thermodynamic inserts that mold to your feet after a few uses. Wearing rental boots negates this crucial function. Well-fitting boots will make you feel confident, stable, and comfortable. Looking for boots for freestyle riding? Then you're more experienced! Here are some good tips that can help.
The term "freestyle" can encompass a wide variety of techniques and variations. Do you freestyle on the slopes? Or perhaps you're primarily interested in jumps and stunts in the snowpark? You'll find the perfect pair of boots for each variation. The main characteristic to consider when choosing a boot for your riding style is its stiffness, which is measured on a ten-point scale.
Let's start with jibbing. If you're looking for shoes for box and rail jumping, you should look for slightly softer models. These allow for precise board bending during tricks. The speed is slightly slower in these types of jumps, which would also encourage a softer shoe. On the aforementioned scale, look for shoes with a stiffness between 2 and 6.
What if you're jumping in a snow park but prefer ramps like the halfpipe or kicker? In that case, you'll obviously need to develop a bit more speed. For this, it's better to invest in a stiffer boot. This will allow you to maintain a stable riding position, take off precisely and accurately, and land safely. The boot stiffness we recommend for riders heading to the jump ranges from 5 to 9.
Freestyle can also be practiced on the slopes, without planning a visit to a snow park. It requires perfectly mastered technique and a lot of imagination and finesse. It's definitely a pastime for more advanced riders who know how to handle a snowboard. What boots do we recommend for this type of riding? We'd go for hard boots. For fast or dynamic riding on the slopes, you'll need stability and confidence. Hard boots will provide this. We're talking about a 5-8 on a 10-point scale.
Also, remember to choose the right lacing system and size that's comfortable for you. Leave some room in the shoe for a thick, breathable sock. Measure your foot carefully by placing it on a piece of paper and tracing the points at the big toe and heel. Then use a ruler. Stiffer boots, which we recommend for some freestylers, sometimes feature a BOA system with a tightening steel cable. You could try renting boots with this system for a one-time trial and see how you feel about them. Good luck with your shoe selection!
The term "freestyle" can encompass a wide variety of techniques and variations. Do you freestyle on the slopes? Or perhaps you're primarily interested in jumps and stunts in the snowpark? You'll find the perfect pair of boots for each variation. The main characteristic to consider when choosing a boot for your riding style is its stiffness, which is measured on a ten-point scale.
Let's start with jibbing. If you're looking for shoes for box and rail jumping, you should look for slightly softer models. These allow for precise board bending during tricks. The speed is slightly slower in these types of jumps, which would also encourage a softer shoe. On the aforementioned scale, look for shoes with a stiffness between 2 and 6.
What if you're jumping in a snow park but prefer ramps like the halfpipe or kicker? In that case, you'll obviously need to develop a bit more speed. For this, it's better to invest in a stiffer boot. This will allow you to maintain a stable riding position, take off precisely and accurately, and land safely. The boot stiffness we recommend for riders heading to the jump ranges from 5 to 9.
Freestyle can also be practiced on the slopes, without planning a visit to a snow park. It requires perfectly mastered technique and a lot of imagination and finesse. It's definitely a pastime for more advanced riders who know how to handle a snowboard. What boots do we recommend for this type of riding? We'd go for hard boots. For fast or dynamic riding on the slopes, you'll need stability and confidence. Hard boots will provide this. We're talking about a 5-8 on a 10-point scale.
Also, remember to choose the right lacing system and size that's comfortable for you. Leave some room in the shoe for a thick, breathable sock. Measure your foot carefully by placing it on a piece of paper and tracing the points at the big toe and heel. Then use a ruler. Stiffer boots, which we recommend for some freestylers, sometimes feature a BOA system with a tightening steel cable. You could try renting boots with this system for a one-time trial and see how you feel about them. Good luck with your shoe selection!
